If you live in Louisiana, you probably either fish or know someone who does. It is important to spread the word to family and friends about the dangers of fishing, kayaking or participating in other water-based activities with open wounds.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) is urging individuals traveling to the Caribbean this summer to be wary of mosquitoes, which may transmit the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), while on their trip. The chikungunya virus is also being spread in parts of Asia, Africa, Europe and the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to work with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners to closely monitor Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) globally, including the cases of MERS-CoV infection recently reported by China and the Republic of Korea, to better understand the risks to public health. The purpose of this HAN Advisory is to provide updated guidance to state health departments and healthcare providers in the evaluation of patients for MERS-CoV infection, which have been revised in light of the current situation in the Republic of Korea.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH), Office of Public Health (OPH), Bureau of Family Health (BFH) is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for qualified proposers to conduct statewide social marketing and multimedia outreach services to promote the health of Louisiana’s women of childbearing age in order to ultimately impact maternal and infant mortality and morbidity.

Hurricane season officially began Monday, June 1, and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) encourages Louisianans to begin planning for potential storms and to sign up as a volunteer to assist during a crisis.

The summer months are here, which means many of us will soon be laying out on the beach, near the pool or by the lake. Getting too much sun is the last thing you want on your mind while relaxing by the water, but it is important to protect yourself and your family from potentially dangerous UV rays while enjoying the weather.

As temperatures increase, the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) urges families to adopt heat safety measures while enjoying the summer sun - especially for children. Through the Louisiana Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program, DHH is able to provide health professionals and community members with information and supplies to help prevent and prepare for pediatric medical emergencies, such as heat illness. The department urges parents to protect children enjoying outdoor activities during hotter months. National EMS Week is recognized May 17 -23, 2015.

Summertime is here, which means Louisiana families are already starting to get active and enjoy the water. Whether you are taking a trip to a lake, going for a dip in the pool or just pulling out the water-based yard toys, the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) advises you to take precautions to keep yourself and your family safe from risks associated with water activities such as drowning and infection from germs.